Local ordinances limiting exposure to secondhand smoke are the most direct and effective way to improve the public’s health. Increasingly, many California communities are interested in limiting secondhand smoke exposure and tobacco use in areas such as parks, playgrounds, and sports fields. By addressing tobacco use outdoors, an ordinance prohibiting smoking or all tobacco use in recreational areas also helps limit tobacco-related litter.

Your community can use this checklist to help consider the range of policy choices available when designing a local ordinance regulating smoking use in recreational areas. 

You can also download TALC's model Smokefree Recreational Areas Ordinance.